Updated on 2nd January 2026 | 3:28 PM | #MBAWATPreparation
MBA WAT Preparation: Many top B-schools, including IIMs, conduct the Written Ability Test as an important component of the MBA shortlisting and final selection process. The CAT WAT/AWT assessment continues to play a significant role in the IIM admission process for the 2026 intake. Thus, it is important for every aspirant to prepare for the CAT WAT round effectively.
Earlier, there was no such round; however, WAT was reintroduced by multiple IIMs from the 2023 admission cycle onward after being discontinued in 2021 and 2022 due to the pandemic. For MBA admissions in 2026, WAT preparation remains crucial for candidates targeting IIMs and other top B-schools where written evaluation is part of the selection process.
For serious MBA aspirants, Written Ability Test, or WAT preparation is important, as this round evaluates candidates’ written ability, critical thinking, and how their thought process works. A strong WAT performance can significantly strengthen your overall profile and increase your chances of getting into your dream B-school.
The Written Ability Test is referred to as WAT. Writing an essay usually takes 15-30 minutes and is a crucial component of the admissions process for several MBA programmes, especially at select IIMs and other top B-schools.
As the name implies, the candidate must write an essay on a given topic within a specified time limit and word range, testing clarity of thought and structure.
Why are WATs conducted by IIMs?
The essay writing test evaluates a candidate’s ability to think critically, structure arguments, and communicate ideas effectively in writing. It is conducted after candidates clear the entrance exam stage, such as the CAT, and are shortlisted for further evaluation. For the 2026 admission cycle, many institutes continue to use WAT as part of their assessment framework, though the exact format may vary.
Managers and business leaders are expected to possess strong verbal and written communication skills to make effective presentations and proposals. While verbal communication skills are assessed during the Personal Interview, written communication skills are evaluated by IIMs through the Written Ability Test (WAT).
Also read: How to prepare for WAT-PI and GD
The Written Ability Test or WAT is highly misunderstood as to what it requires and expects from a candidate.
The following significant criteria will be used to evaluate your work when you write the WAT:
The format of the Written Ability Test (WAT) round can vary slightly depending on the specific program or institution. However, the following is a general format followed by most IIMs and top B-schools for MBA admissions, including the 2026 intake:
Read in detail about Written Ability Test topics.
The WAT is typically graded on a variety of factors, such as:
Preparing for the Writing Ability Test (WAT) can significantly enhance your performance and boost your confidence. Here are some simple tips to help you prepare effectively:
Although there are other approaches to essay structure, the most dependable and successful one consists of these three components:
Writing a compelling WAT essay requires a clear and logical structure that guides your arguments and impresses the B-school admissions committee. Here are two effective frameworks you can choose from, each with its strengths:
This framework is ideal for essays where you need to take a clear stance on a topic and support it with logical arguments and evidence. It follows a clear progression:
The above framework is useful when you need to analyse a problem and propose a solution. This framework is useful for topics that require problem analysis and solution-oriented thinking:
The most suitable framework for your WAT essay depends on the nature of the prompt and the approach you decide to take.
No. The use of WAT varies across IIMs and B-schools each year. While several institutes include WAT as part of their selection process, others may replace it with alternative written or evaluation components. Candidates should check the specific admission criteria of each institute.
WAT topics can range from current affairs, social and economic issues, business and management topics, to abstract or opinion-based prompts. Candidates are expected to present structured, logical, and balanced viewpoints.
No. WAT is not designed to test advanced English or vocabulary. Institutes primarily assess clarity of thought, logical reasoning, structure, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively in writing.
Effective WAT preparation includes regular reading of newspapers and editorials, practicing essay writing on diverse topics, improving structure and clarity, and writing under time constraints to build speed and confidence.